For the past six years, Georgina Hutcheson has called Indian Lakes home. When asked what drew her to the neighborhood, she smiles and points to the trees. “Coming from Amarillo, where tumbleweeds count as trees,” she jokes, “it’s amazing to walk around nature again. I love the trails and wildlife—it’s beautiful here.” That appreciation for the natural beauty around her is matched only by her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.

Georgina is a devoted volunteer with Aggie ACHIEVE, a four-year comprehensive transition program at Texas A&M University. Aggie ACHIEVE is designed for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing them with an inclusive college experience. Through academic coursework, internships, and full participation in campus life, students gain the skills they need for meaningful employment and independent living after graduation. It’s a pioneering program—one that changes lives not only for students but for families and the Aggie community as a whole.

“I’ve been volunteering with Aggie ACHIEVE for four years,” Georgina explains. “I help out in Study Hall and with the Freshman Independent Living Skills class. I also pitch in at special events throughout the year.” Her role may be volunteer-based, but the impact she has had is nothing short of professional-level dedication.

Her journey with Aggie ACHIEVE began almost by accident. A few years ago, she read about the newly launched program and was immediately inspired by its mission. She reached out to the program office and offered to sponsor a tailgate for students, families, and staff. “It was so much fun seeing everyone together, laughing, eating, enjoying Aggie traditions,” Georgina recalls. That one event lit a spark in her. “I realized how much I missed being involved with Texas A&M and Special Olympics. So I asked if they needed volunteers. They said yes, and I’ve been blessed to be part of Aggie ACHIEVE ever since.”

Like any new program, Aggie ACHIEVE has faced challenges. For Georgina, the biggest has been location. Originally, the program offices were housed in the Harrington building, right in the heart of campus. “I loved that spot,” she says. “It gave the students a reason to walk through campus every day. Unfortunately, because of construction, the program had to move to modular trailers on the edge of campus. My hope is that Aggie ACHIEVE gets relocated to the center of campus, where students can be better immersed in campus life.”

Despite obstacles, the rewards have been abundant. One of Georgina’s favorite memories is that first tailgate she sponsored. Word spread quickly among her family and friends, who pitched in with food, games, and fellowship. The event was such a success that the H-E-B tailgate judges stopped by—and voted for their gathering “Tailgate of the Week.” Georgina beams as she recalls that day. “I loved seeing friends, family, community members, and Aggie ACHIEVE students all together, making new friends and having a great time.”

Throughout the year, Georgina continues to support a wide range of student-focused activities. From the Freshman Picnic at Aggie Park to Sophomore tours of Kyle Field, Junior outings to OPAS performances, and Senior luncheons at Rudder Tower, each event is designed to give Aggie ACHIEVE students the full Aggie experience. She also helps with the Fall Festival, Maroon Santa Goody Bags for veteran families, and of course, the much-anticipated Aggie ACHIEVE Tailgate at the first football game of the year.

The program operates solely on private philanthropy and student fees, making volunteers and community partners absolutely essential. “Private funding is critical,” Georgina emphasizes. “It’s what ensures this initiative stays strong and continues to grow.”

When asked what keeps her motivated, Georgina doesn’t hesitate. “The students,” she says simply. “They are the reason. Watching them grow, laugh, learn, and live the Aggie experience—it fills my heart. I get to see firsthand how much this program changes lives, and I’m so grateful to play even a small part.”

For Georgina, making a difference is more than just a phrase—it’s a way of life. Through Aggie ACHIEVE, she has found a meaningful outlet for her talents, energy, and Aggie spirit. And in return, she has gained a deeper connection to her community, her university, and the students whose futures she helps to shape.

To learn more about Aggie ACHIEVE or to support its mission, visit aggieachieve.tamu.edu.